Appointments

Maintaining health for you and your loved ones is always important, but decisions about getting care during this uncertain time can be confusing and even a little scary. At UNC Health, we’re constantly monitoring and adjusting to make sure we are safely and effectively providing the care you need.

We have appointments available – You may have heard that health systems in some areas of the country are overrun. Fortunately, that is not the case in North Carolina. Physical distancing appears to be working to “flatten the curve” and extensive preparations across UNC Health means we currently have the ability to see our patients

Virtual care is here – We’re using video visits along with other virtual options to offer high quality care without you needing to leave home

Should I keep my scheduled appointment?

If you have an upcoming primary or specialty care appointment, we encourage you to keep it. Most appointments that don’t require a physical exam or contact are shifting to virtual visits using video. These video visits allow you to connect with your provider while staying safely and conveniently at home.

Virtual Care Options

Learn about the types of virtual care options offered at UNC Health and the benefits of each.

Your provider’s office will contact you about setting up a video visit and to discuss other options if needed.

Video visits will be billed to your insurance. In most cases, your copay is the same as an in-person appointment. Coverage details vary by insurer, so please contact your insurance provider with questions and to confirm your out-of-pocket costs.

Many practices and clinics remain open for in-person visits on an as-needed basis. We are taking extra safety precautions in our facilities if you and your provider decide it’s important for you to be seen in person. Be sure to check our visitor policy before coming in.

If you are unable to keep your current appointment, please call your provider’s office to reschedule.

Can I schedule a new appointment?

Yes, please don’t put off your health needs.

If you are new to UNC Health, you can use our online tools to find a nearby provider or practice and call the listed appointment number for scheduling options.

If you’re an established UNC Health patient, call your provider’s office or use My UNC Chart to schedule a virtual visit with a provider you’ve seen in the past.

Which patients need to be seen in person?

Virtual visits allow UNC Health providers to offer quality care for many types of appointments. But some concerns require a physical examination and/or testing, as do some forms of treatment. Your provider will decide with you which type of appointment is best.

Are clinic or office visits safe right now?

We’ve taken many steps to protect your health during an in-person visit, including:

What should I expect during an in-person appointment?

Specific procedures vary by location, but patients coming to a UNC Health facility for an appointment should expect:

Wellness screening – Prior to coming in you’ll be asked a series of questions to make sure an in-person visit is still safe and appropriate

Temperature – You may be asked if you’re running a temperature or have your temperature taken before entering a UNC Health facility as an added precaution to ensure your safety and that of our staff and healthcare providers

Masks – Everyone entering a UNC Health facility will be given a face mask which must be worn securely during the visit. Masks lower the risk of spreading or catching the coronavirus through coughs and sneezes. Together with hand washing and physical distancing, these are the most important things we can all do to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Appearance – Your provider may be wearing more protective gear than you’re used to seeing – including a mask, gown and gloves.

If You Have Symptoms of Coronavirus

If you are concerned you have been exposed or have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), click the Coronavirus Help tab on the bottom of the page. This will bring up our coronavirus symptom checker that will lead you through some questions to determine if you need medical follow-up. You can also call your primary care provider. Do not go to your doctor’s office or an urgent care without first determining if further medical screening is necessary.

If you are having difficulty breathing, call 911 or seek immediate treatment.

Interested in a Video Visit?

Find out how to schedule a video visit, how to set up your equipment, and how to navigate a scheduled video visit.